ABSTRACT: The end product are maps and databases depicting habitat connectivity for particular species that are surrogates for a broader range of species. The surrogate Species connectivity modeling includes two components. First, each Surrogate Species’ breeding/home range habitats are modeled using empirically-derived variables such as land cover information and habitat patch size.
Portland State University will deliver the results of this modeling effort to Metro in July 2018. Second, the best apparent connectivity habitat is modeled based on variables such as surrogate species’ permeable habitats that may not be sufficient for breeding but passable for travel; distance between stepping stone habitats; and likely barriers such as significant development, freeways, or substantial gaps in appropriate vegetation. The modeling will be conducted for the entire extent of the Oregon side of the RCS boundary. The Contractor will model and map potential connectivity habitat for the following species: Forested habitats: Northern red-legged frog*, American beaver, rubber boa, Swainson’s Thrush, Douglas squirrel Oak (madrone/pine) woodlands: Slender-billed (White-breasted) Nuthatch, Western gray squirrel. We just finished mapping Oregon white oak on the Oregon side of the RCS boundary, which will enable this modeling. We are also using Southern alligator lizard as a surrogate species, but that is to ensure we incorporate onsite key habitat features such as downed wood and rock piles needed by many species; there is no modelling involved for this species.
Wetlands: American beaver and Northern red-legged frog. These two species are closely associated with both forest and wetland habitats, and it is important to incorporate the spatial
relationships between the two habitat types.
A third step, which will follow connectivity modeling, will be to get out on the ground for habitat and barrier assessments. This work is not yet or funded. The RCWG is currently creating a Strategic Action Plan, and one of the likely steps to follow will be identifying the highest priority habitat and connectivity areas for restoration or conservation. Eventually, it is anticipated that these data will eventually be used to update the Portland-Vancouver Regional Conservation Strategy.
AWARD ID: PO 140F0118P0278
START DATE: 09/30/2019
END DATE: 12/31/2019
SOURCE: Region 1 Science Applications
AMOUNT: $10,000
PI: Martin Lafrenz
CONTACT INFO: Martin Lafrenz
Associate Professor of Geography
Geography Department
Portland State University
lafrenz@pdx.edu
http://www.pdx.edu/geography/
LEAD ORG: Portland Metro and Intertwine
FWS PO: Tom Miewald, thomas_miewald@fws.gov
